Real time ultrasonography in obstructive jaundice

ABSTRACT

Ultrasonography is a predominantly accurate, relatively simple unique diagnsotic method of obstructive jaundice. The ultrasonographic findings of obstructive jaundice are dilated intra- and extrahepatic duct with intraluminal hyperreflective echo or mass in and/or around the bile duct. The superiority of high resolution real time ultrasonography for the diagnosis of obstructive jaundice is based on the easy detectability of extra-and intrahepatic bile ducts by its multiple sectional images in a short time, the flexibility of probe and the small crystal size. Author evaluated real time sonographic findings 46 obstructive jaundice patients confirmed by surgery or radiographical examinations. The results were 1. Diameter of extrahepatic duct in obstructive jaundice were varied from normal to 4.0 cm, mostly 8 to 10 mm in diameter (26%). Degree of dilatation of biliary duct appeared more prominent in cancer patients than any other causes of obstruction. 2. The site of obstruction was detected in85% (39/46) and its common site was common bile duct in 63% (29/46). 3. The diagnostic accuracy of choledocholithiasis and cancer was 82% (22/27) and 44% (4/9), respectively. Diagnostic accuracy of the real time ultrasonography in obstructive jaundice was over all 75% (34/46).